At the heart of the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen is vibrant and exciting, chic yet traditional and serves as a fantastic destination for all kinds of holiday-makers. The resort boats fantastic shopping, luxury, boutique and budget hotels and apartments, and superb dining experiences from 5-star restaurants through to traditional taco sellers. The nightlife is thrilling too. Clubs and bars, in-house entertainment and plenty to attract the growing number of visitors that descend upon Playa del Carmen and have now turned it into the much-loved resort we know today.
It's a superb choice for kids and adults since Playa del Carmen beach continues the Riviera's theme of soft, white sand and dazzling turquoise sea with plenty of aquatic activities to be had. Before and after the pier area pretty much defines where family beach fun begins and the adults sunbathing and taking advantage of resorts and beach clubs ends. Being in the centre of the Riviera Maya means plenty of excursions and day trips can be combined to give your holiday a taste of all things including ancient Mayan ruins, world-class scuba diving, boat trips, aqua and eco parks and plenty more.
Definitely not to be missed on a holiday to Playa del Carmen is the chance to swim in caves and cenotes, marvel at beautiful and diverse marine life amongst one of the largest coral reef systems in the world and snorkel amidst the crystal clear waters. There are plenty of expeditions taking you to some of the best spots whatever your level of diving experience.
Tulum, further along the coast, offers an insight into ancient Mayan living with imposing ruins proudly standing on the cliff top and lush tropics surrounding the area. It is simply beautiful!
Back in Playa del Carmen and 'Fifth Avenue' provides all your shopping requirements and more. The entertainment and boutique shopping strip is lively and full of character. Evening time brings music and food in copious proportions. It is the entertainment hub of the resort and extremely popular.
From the Playa's beach, the island of Cozumel can also be seen and this is worth a further day trip for aquatic activities.
Families are easily assisted by hotel staff with on-site kids' clubs or several ideas and places to visit that will appeal to the much younger generation. This is besides the plentiful fun they will have on the beach!